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Understanding the Different Types of Car Keys Not so long ago, misplacing-or worse, losing-your car keys was not an issue. You could buy keys at the local auto parts store or locksmith. As cars have adapted to adapt to technological advances replacing keys lost in the car is becoming more difficult and costly. Find out more about the factors that influence the total cost of a car key replacement. Basic Keys When people think of their car keys, they might imagine a basic metal key that can open doors and start the engine. While those are the most popular types of car keys, there are many other kinds that are more advanced and have enhanced security features. Understanding the differences between various kinds of car keys can help people know what to expect when it comes to replacing or fixing them. Standard keys are the most basic kind of car keys. They've been in use for decades, and they remain the most sought-after option for newer vehicles. These are the keys you can purchase at an hardware store and then attach to your keychain. Keys that are standard are fairly affordable to duplicate, but can be expensive to replace when they're damaged or lost. car key repair shop near me include the transponder keys, which has been used since 1995 and offers security over traditional keys. Microchips are incorporated into the handle of the key and activated when the key is inserted into the ignition. These can be more expensive to replace if lost or damaged, but provide greater security against theft than traditional keys. Switchblade keys are an alternative. They fold down into an accessory keyfob when not used. They're a bit more expensive to replace than standard keys, however they can be even more costly when the handle or shank of the key is damaged. Lastly, there are also smart keys that come with built-in Bluetooth trackers and remote starts. These keys are more expensive and may require locksmiths' tools to repair. Mechanical Keys In the past when your car key was damaged or stopped working, you needed to visit the local hardware store to purchase an alternative. Things are a bit more complicated today. There are many kinds of cars in circulation and each one has its own key. Based on the model, replacing it may cost you more or less than $50. Mechanical keys are the simplest type. They're also known as “insert-and-turn” keys. They are the keys that you used to be in a position to replace at the hardware store to change your pocket. They do not have transponders and are used to secure the trunk or doors, but they are not used to start the car. The other kind of key, which is the most commonly used in use is the transponder key. This key has a small transponder inside the head of the key which transmits a coded signal to the ignition system of your vehicle to verify the validity of the key. This system was added to cars in 1995 and prevents the ignition from starting in the event that a stolen or unauthorised key is used. To fix this type of key the first step is to determine what's causing the malfunction. In the majority of cases it is a problem with the cap of the key or the switch is the culprit. To fix the problem, the key cap or key switch will need to be removed carefully using the appropriate tool. They will then have to be cleaned and lubricated. Lubricating the switch is crucial since it can solve issues such as key chatter. This is a reference to keys which can register multiple inputs when they are they are pressed. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, also known as “chip keys” are an integral element of the anti-theft device in your car. The tiny microchip that is embedded in the plastic head of the key transmits signals to the antenna ring surrounding the ignition cylinder. The car won't start if the computer doesn't get the right response. The majority of cars manufactured in the year 1998 feature this kind of chip. Problem is, they are more expensive to replace. They also have an entirely different design than traditional mechanical keys, they also contain a special microchip that needs to be programmed into the computer in your vehicle to work effectively. Connecting a diagnostic tool with your car's computer, and then entering the programming mode is how you accomplish this. It can be more difficult than simply cutting a brand blank from scratch, and since the tools aren't available in every locksmith shop you're likely to spend more than when replacing a standard mechanical key. Another factor is the model and make of your car. Certain manufacturers have their own equipment that must be used in order to program their vehicles, which can increase your cost. Some prefer having an expert do the programming of their transponder keys. This is due to the complicated procedures, like cutting wires to remove the transponder's antenna and using a scanner device and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that a professional is working on your car. You may be able save money by going directly to the dealer to have the new chip installed. Laser Cut Keys Laser cut keys have a blade with a high level of security. They were first introduced in the 1990s to combat vehicle theft. They are much harder to duplicate than traditional key designs and include transponder chips in their heads. The chips communicate with the ignition once they are placed into it, preventing the vehicle from starting if the incorrect key is used. While this technology works to protect against car thieves however, it isn't able to stop them completely. The unique blade and shape of the key is difficult to duplicate, but thieves can still make use of it with the appropriate tools to gain entry to your car. This is because traditional keys have the standard lock cylinder, which is easy to pick. Laser keys, however, come with a sidewinder cylinder lock that is much more difficult to pick. The key is also more durable in comparison to conventional keys. The blade is made of hardened steel that is able to withstand a lot of wear and tear before wearing out. However, if the key does wear out or is accidentally snapped in half, it's affordable to have it replaced by a seasoned locksmith. While laser cut keys are more expensive than their edge-cut counterparts, they provide increased security. The combination of the blade, transponder and the lock cylinder makes it harder to duplicate. They are still vulnerable to being stolen or lost if you do not make the proper precautions. broken car key repair Although they're useful but key fobs can be difficult to use. car keys repairs near me don't last forever and are likely to cease functioning when you most likely don't. You could find yourself in a embarrassing situation if the fob fails, especially if you are carrying around a large amount of groceries or heading to work after a tiring day. You may have to call a locksmith or tow truck, and it may cost you a considerable amount to get your vehicle back on the road. A variety of factors affect the price of a fob, including the type of key it is made of and the materials it is made of. It is also dependent on the brand, which typically costs more. Some fobs can be programmed by the owner while others require a dealer reprogram them to the vehicle. If your key fob will not work or is working intermittently, a simple replacement battery may be the solution. These batteries are typically $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores and big box retailers and online. To replace the battery, gently tear the two halves of the key fob and then insert the new one in the same way as the previous one. If your key fob is damaged or doesn't function correctly, you'll need to have it reprogrammed by the dealer. You can do it yourself, but it's better to let it be done by an expert to avoid accidental damage which could result in costly repairs in the future. If you have a spare key and fob, you could skip this step and simply purchase a replacement to save money. If you've lost your fob and key together, it's well worth it to allow the dealer to reprogram your key and cut a brand new key at the exact same at the same time.